Events in Salinas, CA

The Hollister Farmers' Market features the Hollister Artisans with locally made handcrafted gifts. The market also offers food to enjoy while you shop, creating an easy way to support local makers.

Each Wednesday, Shearwater Tavern offers free tastings of regional and local wines selected by Lady Somm Carmel. Guests can sample a curated selection and enjoy the experience with friends.

Get cozy by the fireplace and enjoy live piano from Dave Conley in the lounge. He performs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, with additional sets on Fridays and Saturdays.

This event features the legendary Geoff Tate for Operation: Mindcrime - The Final Chapter.

The Birth Network of Monterey County offers a no-cost postpartum gathering in Pacific Grove that is open to the community. Meeting each month, it provides a warm, welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and find support during the period after birth.

Set in Carmel-by-the-Sea, this four day celebration spotlights film, television, and the artists who make them. International and local filmmakers present their work at the Golden Bough Theatre, with post-screening conversations and opportunities to connect with industry guests. The schedule features Q&A panels with filmmakers and actors, along with parties and networking focused on career development for emerging talent. Confirmed guests include Lifetime Achievement honoree Stephen Nemeth, producer of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Academy Award nominee Eric Roberts, cinematographer Walt Lloyd, production designer Stephen Altman, and actress Frances Fisher of Unforgiven. Additional guests will be announced, and the lineup is subject to change.

The weekly Tech Café offers a welcoming space to learn about technology. Participants can get answers to basic tech questions and try a different hands-on tool each month. Demonstrations rotate through Doodle Pens, Makey Makey circuit boards, 3D printing, Sphero programmable robots, Cricut machines, a Glowforge laser cutter, and iPad stop motion movie making. Sessions are typically held at the Main Library unless otherwise noted. This program is open to all ages.

At The Post, Taco Thursday teams up with Game Night for a weekly blend of crunchy, cheesy tacos and playful competition. Try your hand at darts, drop bags in cornhole, rally at the ping pong table, and take a turn on the sole pool table in Carmel. Open to the public, this gathering mixes good food with friendly matchups and plenty of chances to show off game skills.

Settle by the fireplace in the lounge for live piano by Dave Conley. The cozy setting creates a relaxed atmosphere for an easygoing evening of music.

Jessica Kirson delivers a high-octane set that blends comic storytelling with a roster of memorable characters. Lightning-fast wit and cutting humor keep the laughter going from beginning to end, creating a run of continuous fun. Huge laughs and an electric crowd vibe shape a night of stand-up comedy.

Round 6 of the 2026 season arrives in California at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. This USCA weekend blends challenges that gauge each car’s on-track performance, real-world drivability, and craftsmanship. The schedule features autocross, a road course time trial, the speed stop challenge, design and engineering evaluations, and a road rally. Scores from these five segments determine the Ultimate Street Car in each class at this stop, and class winners earn a chance to compete for the overall title at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas each year.

Aloha vibes fill Downtown Monterey as The Green performs alongside special guest Johnny Suite, creating an upbeat, island-inspired atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Trumpeter Chris Botti takes the stage for a live performance that highlights his expressive sound and masterful technique. Expect sweeping melodies and polished musicianship throughout a concert crafted to captivate from the first notes to the final applause.

An industry panel with Q&A delves into how a director conceives a film before production begins, covering tone, pacing, and visual style, as well as color palette, setting, lighting choices, camera angles, music, and the use of sound when there is no dialogue. Edward Burns, recipient of the 1995 Sundance Grand Jury Prize and a writer, director, and actor known for The Brothers McMullen, She’s the One, Sidewalks of New York, Newlyweds, The Fitzgerald Family Christmas, The Family McMullen, and Beneath the Blue Suburban Skies, discusses guiding performances and tackling creative problems on the fly, including when to help actors find a character’s core truth and when to step back. The conversation is moderated by CIFFest co-directors Lawrence Roeck and Annette Andersen Caton, along with producer Adrian Clark. Open to all pass holders. Runtime is one hour at the Founders Theatre.

Enjoy live piano from Dave Conley in the lounge by the fireplace. Settle in and let the music complement a relaxed, unhurried visit.

Taking place in Carmel, California, Poodle Day includes a parade of poodles, activities in the afternoon, and parties in the evening. This year marks the event’s 17th year.

The event welcomes riders and the public for a POW/MIA Recognition Poker Run and Remembrance Ceremony at American Legion Post 593 with ALR District 28. Proceeds support local veterans. A $30 donation includes entry for high and low hand play as well as a wood grilled tri tip meal. The schedule features poker run registration and a ride departure, followed by a solemn ceremony honoring prisoners of war and those missing in action, with a Missing Man Table and a Soldier’s Battle Cross. After the ceremony, attendees can enjoy the tri tip meal, a raffle, high and low hand awards, and a 50/50 drawing. For more information, contact John or Linda at (408) 448-4784.

Safeguarding clean water takes daily commitment. Across the Central Coast, Monterey Waterkeeper works to stop pollution, restore waterways, and make safe, affordable drinking water accessible to every community. This autumn garden gathering reflects that purpose through community and stewardship. In the relaxed garden setting of the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, supporters, advocates, and community members come together to focus on protecting the region’s most essential resource. Attendees can expect a welcoming outdoor atmosphere, meaningful conversations, and clear insight into local water protection efforts, along with opportunities to support clean water initiatives across the Central Coast and learn practical ways to help.

Death From Above 1979 unleashes a fierce rock set packed with towering riffs and relentless drive from start to finish. The crowd stays fully engaged as every song lands with force and attitude, building a charged atmosphere that leaves fans eager for more.

Settle in by the fireplace in the lounge and listen to Dave Conley at the piano. The relaxed setting creates a welcoming atmosphere for unhurried listening.

Enjoy a community contra dance at the YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula, featuring live music, a friendly introductory lesson to get started, and plenty of social dancing. A potluck snack break on the porch is part of the fun. Contra is a participatory folk dance done in long lines of couples. Each dance is taught and prompted by a caller, you move through the set and dance with many partners, and it is a walking dance so no fancy footwork is needed. All ages are welcome, beginners are encouraged, and you do not need to bring a partner. This long-running series has brought live music and energetic dancing to the community since 1999. For this event, the caller will use Larks and Robins terminology. Admission is sliding scale: $15–$30 for general entry, $10–$25 for members of MCDC, BACDS, CDSS and sister organizations, $5 for active military and full-time students with ID, and free for children 12 and under. No one will be turned away if cost is a barrier. Health guidelines encourage vaccination and masking. Masks will be available at the door, and anyone feeling unwell should stay home. Comfortable, lightweight clothing and low-heeled, non-marking soft-soled shoes are recommended, along with a reusable water bottle.

TJ Kuenster, a pianist and singer, delivers live music in the Sardine Factory Lounge with a wide-ranging set that spans country, rock, and American songbook classics associated with Sinatra.

A Personal Financial Manager will be available at this Money Matters pop-up to answer quick questions about finances. Find the PFM in front of NPS Cafe Del Monte. For special accommodations, contact Angelica Sagastume at 831-656-3528.

Killer Queen: A Tribute to Queen performs at the Golden State Theatre in a show devoted to the music of Queen.

Kids can explore smart money habits through a hands-on activity at the Money Munchkins pop-up table. Designed for ages 3 to 10, the experience centers on crafting a Dollar Defense Shield that symbolizes protecting their money. As they color, cut, and assemble their shield, children learn key ideas like saving, spending thoughtfully, and keeping money secure. Parents receive practical tips to continue teaching money safety and responsible habits at home. For special accommodation, contact Angelica Sagastume at angelica.felixsagastume@nps.edu or 831-656-3528.

Monterey County Office of Education hosts the Inside Education Monterey County cohort, an interactive public program that opens a window into local schools and the work educators and administrators are doing to support students. Through a mix of informative workshops and guided classroom visits, participants explore how public education functions in the county, the challenges it faces, and the efforts underway to strengthen student learning and well-being. This session focuses on Early Care and Education. Registration is free and open to community members who want a deeper understanding of education in Monterey County.

An annual luncheon during Domestic Violence Awareness Month brings the community together at Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside. Connected with YWCA Monterey County, the gathering emphasizes awareness, collective strength, and support for survivors, with a focus on helping individuals move from survival toward thriving.

At Monterey County Fairgrounds, Gears and biers OCTOBERFEST brings a lively weekend highlighted by the second annual DIST 36 Reunion. The focus is on bikes and storytelling, with chances to display rides, share memories, and enjoy some bench racing. Music adds to the atmosphere while show bikes and race bikes share the spotlight alongside vendors, bars, dancing, and dinner.

El Estero Park hosts the 27th annual Monterey Bay Walk & Roll to Cure ALS, a community outdoor event focused on raising funds for free ALS care services and research pursuing effective treatments and cures. Participants come together to walk or roll in honor of people living with ALS, in memory of those lost, and in support of the entire ALS community. The event offers a meaningful atmosphere with plenty of inspiration and fun for everyone involved.

Comedian Brian Regan delivers a stand-up performance at the Golden State Theatre on the West Coast.

This class clarifies how anger differs from assertiveness, stress, and aggression. You will learn to assess and understand your own anger, build skills to manage it, and use calming strategies when situations become stressful.

Watsonville Public Library hosts free health screenings at the Main Library with no appointment required. Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley provides screenings and information to help visitors check on their health and learn about risks for conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. This installment focuses on cholesterol screening. The series is open to all ages and is supported by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian, with additional support from Rural Health Connections.

Roger McGuinn takes the stage for a live concert featuring timeless music and signature hits. This performance highlights a legendary artist delivering celebrated songs, setting the tone for a memorable night of music.

Kick things off with a free CRJ swing basics lesson where newcomers can learn and experienced dancers can pitch in to help. Afterward, a kindred spirit band brings lively dance tunes from the Steinbeck era. A five dollar cover will be added to the first drink.

A community car show brings beautiful custom cars and timeless classics to North Salinas High School. The showcase features standout rides, music, and family-friendly entertainment. Attendees can also support the Viking Cheer Team.

The Great Western Pigeon Show in Northern California is an all-breed, all-age event at the Santa Cruz Fairgrounds in Watsonville. The weekend features a banquet, a raffle, and a for sale section. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase.

This tequila festival features its biggest sale yet, and the event has grown bigger than ever. Attendees can expect a larger scale celebration with notable deals tied to the sale.

Ingrid Michaelson takes the stage for an up-close, personal performance, joined by Allie Moss and Hannah Winkler.

Step back into the world of Twin Peaks with a live conversation featuring cast members from the celebrated series. Created by Mark Frost and David Lynch, the show first aired in 1990 and returned in 2017 with many familiar faces, earning a devoted following and frequent recognition among television’s all-time greats. Presented by David Roy Williams Entertainment under license from Paramount Location-Based Experiences, this event offers fans a chance to hear personal memories from on-screen moments and life behind the scenes. VIP ticket holders can take a photo with Conversation With The Stars cast members, and autographs will be available as a separate purchase. Twin Peaks is available to buy digitally and is streaming on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.

Steven Curtis Chapman brings the Speechless 25th Anniversary Tour to Golden State Theatre in Monterey, celebrating 25 years of the album that delivered seven number one radio hits, including the title track. The concert features Speechless performed in full from start to finish, with favorites like Dive, Be Still and Know, and Fingerprints of God, along with more hits and a few surprises as the tour enters its final run. For ticket safety, third party resales on TPR. pages are not permitted, and purchases made through unofficial sellers are not guaranteed or supported, so obtain tickets only through the official outlet for this event.

Returning with two ways to compete, the Monterey Bay Pickleball Open offers amateur brackets organized by age and skill level, plus an Open Money Ball division featuring competitive prize-pool play that carries an additional entry fee. Registration uses tiered pricing that begins at $80 and later rises to $100 and then $120. The tournament is already two-thirds full, with 204 of 300 spots taken, so space is limited.

Blippi’s Be Like Blippi live tour arrives at the Golden State Theatre in Downtown Monterey with an interactive, education-focused evening for families. Share in playful learning and energetic moments as Blippi brings this live experience to the stage.

Carmel Guitar Society presents Grammy Award winning classical guitarist Jason Vieaux in concert at Founders Theatre in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Recognized by outlets including The New York Times, NPR, Gramophone, and The Huffington Post, he is admired for dazzling technique, lyrical expression, and a compelling stage presence. His résumé spans premier stages such as Lincoln Center, the Concertgebouw, and Seoul Arts Center, together with concerto appearances with major orchestras in Cleveland, Toronto, Houston, St. Louis, and Columbus. An advocate for new music, he has introduced works by Jonathan Leshnoff, Jeff Beal, Avner Dorman, Vivian Fung, and David Ludwig, and Pat Metheny wrote Four Paths of Light for him. On record, his catalog includes the Grammy winning Play, Bach interpretations, and collaborations with violinist Anne Akiko Meyers and flutist Alexa Still, releases noted for eloquent and energetic artistry. As a teacher, he helped establish the guitar program at the Curtis Institute of Music, has served on the Cleveland Institute of Music faculty for more than 25 years, and offers a widely attended online school with ArtistWorks. This performance is part of the Carmel Guitar Society concert series at the historic Founders Theatre. Tickets range from $55 to $80.

Experience a Candlelight concert at the Fox Theater in Salinas, where a string quartet from Listeso performs a program inspired by Halloween surrounded by the warm glow of candles. The tentative set includes Thriller by Michael Jackson, Gounod’s Funeral March of a Marionette, the Allegro molto from Shostakovich’s String Quartet No. 8 in C minor, Tubular Bells from The Exorcist, themes from Stranger Things, Beetlejuice, The Addams Family, and Halloween, plus Herrmann’s Prelude from Psycho, Ghostbusters, Saint-Saëns’s Danse macabre, Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain, Time Warp from The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and a medley from The Nightmare Before Christmas. Attendees must be at least 8 years old, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant. Seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone.

A milestone 120th Anniversary Celebration recognizes the Watsonville community and its history. This special commemoration reflects on the legacy that shaped the area and looks ahead to the years to come.

Candlelight brings a live, multi-sensory concert to the Fox Theater in Salinas, where a Listeso string quartet performs the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons by the gentle glow of candlelight. A tentative program includes songs by Coldplay such as Clocks, Adventure of a Lifetime, Fix You, The Scientist, feelslikeimfallinginlove, Sky Full of Stars, and Viva la Vida, alongside Imagine Dragons tracks including Radioactive, Eyes Closed, Nice to Meet You, Follow You, Bad Liar, and Believer. Guests must be at least 8 years old, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant, and seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone.

The Halloween Outdoor Boutique is dedicated to supporting the Emmus House and local vendors. This seasonal outdoor gathering shines a light on a community cause alongside the vendors taking part.

Mark a century of the Sunset Cultural Center at a community celebration with free admission. The event showcases live performances, storytelling, an open gallery to explore, and activities for families, offering many ways to experience the arts and cultural traditions that have made this a cherished gathering place for generations. No tickets are required.

Rooted in the traditions of home, Joe Newberry and April Verch bring together the sounds and stories of his Missouri Ozarks upbringing and her Ottawa Valley heritage. On the Otter Opry stage at Monterey United Methodist Church, their concert blends original songs with cherished standards, shares the backstories behind the tunes, and weaves energetic fiddle and banjo with rhythmic step dancing. Harmony vocals, toe‑tapping instrumentals, and a welcoming, house‑party feel showcase the bond between two masters of tradition. Tickets are $35, CBA members pay $30, and admission is free for ages 15 and under.

Enjoy a free, family friendly trick or treating experience in Downtown Salinas. Participating downtown shops and businesses offer treats for children, with added activities like costume contests for both kids and adults, pumpkin decorating, and a scavenger hunt. This annual celebration encourages families to explore the historic center for arts, culture, and cuisine in Downtown Salinas, celebrating the beauty and diversity of the community.

A multi day crop offers a choice of three days for $375 or four days for $425. Hosted at an Embassy Suites hotel just two blocks from the beach, the property is offering special room rates of $235 for a king suite or $245 for a double queen suite, with breakfast and an evening reception included.

Marking its 79th year, the Cavalcade of Pigeons showcases pigeons of every breed and age in a broad, inclusive show. Presented by the Central California Pigeon Club at the Fresno Fairgrounds in Central California, the event also features a section for sales, a raffle, and food available for purchase. Attendees can explore a wide variety of birds and enjoy on-site offerings throughout the show.

Y&T, the Bay Area hard rock legends, make a return appearance at the Golden State Theatre.

Centered on community and giving back, this event supports Emmus House and spotlights local vendors.

Paul Cauthen brings a night of soulful music, captivating performances, and powerful vocals that showcase his distinct sound. This live concert is presented as an unforgettable experience, perfect for sharing with friends.

California Bluegrass Reunion returns to the Otter Opry stage at Monterey United Methodist Church to honor California’s bluegrass traditions. The ensemble features fiddler Chad Manning, original instrumentals from mandolinist John Reischman and banjo player Bill Evans, with Jim Nunally on guitar and vocals, Mike Witcher on dobro, Max Schwartz on bass, and Sharon Gilchrist on mandolin shaping the rhythm. The show opens with a four-song set by Nell & Jim, featuring Jim Nunally on vocals, guitar, and banjo alongside Nell Robinson on vocals and miniflute. Online ticket sales close the day of the performance. Admission is $35, CBA members $30, and ages 15 and under are free.

Order from Panera Bread to benefit Town Cats through this fundraiser. The aim is to raise $150 to support care for cats in the community. You can help by showing the fundraiser flyer on your phone or as a printout at checkout, or by ordering online for pickup, delivery, or curbside and entering the promo code FUND4U. Each order contributes to the cause.

Christmas Outdoor Boutique focuses on support for Emmus House and local vendors. This gathering offers a simple way to back the organization and the vendors taking part.

Joanne Shaw Taylor brings a powerhouse show with her band, spotlighting songs from her latest album, Black & Gold, alongside favorites from earlier releases. Celebrated for blazing guitar work and expressive songwriting, she mixes blues, rock, soul, and pop while letting her vocals lead every moment. The set also features heartfelt nods to classic blues legends, weaving tradition into a modern sound. A vibrant performer at the top of her game, she delivers an evening built to resonate long after the final note.

Gary Numan's North American Fall Tour 2026 stops at the Golden State Theatre.

An Otter Opry matinee features The Crooked Jades at Monterey United Methodist Church, a celebrated ensemble that digs deep into rural Americana while stretching the boundaries of traditional bluegrass. Expect driving rhythms, soulful singing, inventive harmonies, and arrangements that highlight a mix of seldom-heard repertoire and vivid original tunes. Guided by founder Jeff Kazor’s vision to revive pre-radio sounds for today, the group performs on an eclectic array of often vintage instruments. The lineup includes Jeff Kazor on vocals, guitar, and ukulele, Joshua Zucker on bass, Lisa Berman on vocals, slide guitar, banjo, and harmonium, Amy Kassir on fiddle, and Erik Pearson on vocals, banjos, ukulele, harmonium, and slide guitar. Praised by audiences and critics for surprising chord choices and powerfully crafted material, the band brings a captivating energy to the stage. Online ticket sales close the day of the performance, with tickets also available at the door. Admission is $35, CBA members $30, and ages 15 and under are free.

A class for parents of children ages 6 to 12 at Fleet & Family Support Center Monterey focuses on practical guidance for raising school-age kids. Explore how children grow through the elementary years, the difference between discipline and punishment, and how various parenting styles influence behavior and family dynamics. The session highlights effective, everyday strategies for nurturing positive behavior, offers tips for addressing challenging situations, and underscores the importance of caregiver well-being through self care.

A dance party celebrating people from all walks of life. The focus is on the dance floor and moving to the music.

A Candlelight concert at the Fox Theater in Salinas features a string quartet performing beloved Christmas carols in a warm, candlelit atmosphere. The 60 minute program may include 12 Days of Christmas, Angels from the Realms of Glory, Angels We Have Heard On High, Away in a Manger, Carol of the Bells, Deck the Halls, Ding Dong! Merrily on High, Do You Hear What I Hear, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Greensleeves (What Child Is This), Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, In the Bleak Mid-Winter, Joy to the World, O Christmas Tree, O Come All Ye Faithful, O Holy Night, Silent Night, and The First Noël. Doors open 45 minutes before the music starts, and late entry is not permitted. Seating within each zone is assigned in order of arrival. Guests aged 8 and older are welcome, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant, and multiple dates and times are offered.

Candlelight transforms Fox Theater in Salinas into an intimate setting for a tribute to the film scores of Hans Zimmer. A string quartet performs familiar themes including Time from Inception, This Land from The Lion King, Zooster’s Breakout from Madagascar, Supermarine from Dunkirk, Honor from The Pacific, A Dark Knight from The Dark Knight, Cornfield Chase from Interstellar, and Discombobulate from Sherlock Holmes, along with suites from Wonder Woman, Gladiator, Dune, and Pirates of the Caribbean. The experience lasts 60 minutes, with doors opening 45 minutes before the music begins and no entry once the performance starts. Guests ages 8 and older are welcome, with those under 16 attending with an adult. The theater is ADA compliant, and seating is allocated within each zone in the order guests arrive.